Senior Division, No. 284, Second Quarter, 1966
kt.
(44.
7
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7
2
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THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY
"With joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation." Isa. 12:3.
"Thy words were found, and
I
did eat them; and Thy word was unto
me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart; for
I
am called by Thy name, 0
Lord God of hosts." Jer. 15:16.
"As a means of intellectual training, the opportunities of the Sabbath
are invaluable. Let the Sabbath School lesson be learned, not by a hasty
glance at the lesson scripture on Sabbath morning, but by careful study
for the next week on Sabbath afternoon, with daily review or illustration
during the week. Thus the lesson will become fixed in the memory, a
treasure never to be wholly
lost."—Education,
pages 251, 252.
"Every day some portion of time should be appropriated to the study
of the lessons, not merely in learning to mechanically repeat the words,
while the mind does not comprehend the meaning; but to go to the very
foundation, and become familiar with what is brought out in the lesson."
—Counsels on Sabbath School Work,
page 53.
My Daily Lesson Study Pledge
As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures,
I pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sabbath
School lesson each day of the week.
Nat
Lesson Titles for the Quarter
1.
Goodness and Nobility
8.
Meekness and Humility
2.
Faithfulness and Dependability
9.
Reverence and Worship
3.
Temperance and Sobriety
10.
Diligence and Industry
4.
Liberality and Benevolence
11.
Kindness and Sympathy
5.
Self-Denial and Sacrifice
12.
JUstice and Equity
6.
Purity and Morality
13.
Zeal and Soul Saving
7.
Patience and Forbearance
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 284, April-June, 1966. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents a
year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A.
by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350 Villa Street, Mountain View,
California 94041. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. Form 3579
requested. When a change of address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses.
Copyright, 1966, by Pacific Press Publishing Association
Printed in U.S.A.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly
CHRISTIAN VIRTUES
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
It has been some time since we re-
viewed the cardinal principles of Christian
living in a comprehensive way such as is
presented here. The preparation of these
lessons was motivated by a desire to pro-
mote the practice in everyday life of those
graces and virtues by which we bear wit-
ness to the world of the faith that sustains
our Christian experience.
The emphasis has been placed on the
active rather than on the passive virtues.
The stern "Thou shalt nots" of the Bible,
though important for our counsel, give
place here to the injunction of Jesus, "This,
do, and thou shalt live," which is appli-
cable throughout life. The titles of the
lessons are twofold to give wider scope,
if possible, to the leading thought of each
week's study. These lessons give oppor-
tunity for extensive study in the counsel
of the spirit of prophecy, to which much
reference has been made.
Lesson 1, for April 2, 1966
Goodness and Nobility
MEMORY VERSE:
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your
good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matt.
5:16.
STUDY HELPS:
"Testimonies," Vol. 1, pp. 303-310; Vol. 5, pp. 532-541; Vol. 9,
pp. 19-29; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: Read the
General Introduction and the
first study help.
❑
Sunday: Lesson Introduction;
Ques. 1-4.
❑
Monday: Ques. 5-8; read second
study help.
❑
Check Here
Tuesday: Ques. 9-11; read third
study help.
❑
Wednesday: Ques. 12, 13.
❑
Thursday: Review first eight ques-
tions; learn memory verse.
❑
Friday: Review last five ques-
tions; meditate on Key Thought.
❑
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Divine Example
1.
God the only source of goodness.
Luke 13:18, 19.
2.
Nature of God's goodness.
Ex. 33:19, first part; 34:6, 7.
3.
Jesus demonstrates God's goodness.
Acts 10:38.
4.
Christ's pattern of service.
Luke 4:18, 19.
II. The Effects of Goodness
5.
Man in his natural state. Ps. 14:
2, 3.
[3
1
6.
God's goodness and man's salva-
tion. Rom. 2:4.
7.
Goodness to be desired. Ps. 107:
9 ; Matt. 5:6.
8.
Fruits of goodness. Gal. 5:22, 23.
III. God's Ideal for Man
9.
Exalted standard for Christian
conduct. 1 Peter 1:15, 16; Matt.
5 :48 ; Eph. 4:13.
10.
Influence of a godly life. Matt.
5:16; 1 Peter 2:12.
11.
Character of believers looking for
Christ's coming. Titus 2:11-14.
IV. The Power for Noble Living and
Its Reward
12.
God working in man. Heb.
13:20, 21.
13.
The eternal reward. Matt. 25:21.
Key Thought:
"True goodness is . . . true greatness."
—Testimonies,
Vol. 2, p. 305.
THE LESSON
.
Introduction
Without dispute the supreme virtue in
Christian living is godliness, from which
stems every other virtue in the list of
Christian graces enjoined on the children
of God. To cultivate all the attributes of
a noble character is to attain the goodness
manifested in Jesus as He moved among
men. This holy objective is the work of
a lifetime and can be realized only in
progressive spiritual growth as we daily
recognize God's goodness, appropriate His
power in overcoming temptation, and in
fellowship and communion with Christ
strive to follow the divine pattern.
The Divine Example
1. How did Jesus direct seekers
after virtue to the true source of
goodness? Luke 18:18, 19.
NOTE.—"The ruler had addressed Christ
merely as an honored rabbi, not discern-
ing in Him the Son of God. The Saviour
said, 'Why callest thou Me good?' . . .
God is the one good. If you recognize Me
as such, you must receive Me as His Son
and representative."—Christ's
Object Les-
sons,
pages 390, 391.
2.
What is the nature of God's
goodness? Ex. 33:19, first part; 34:
6, 7. Compare 1 John 4:8, last part.
NOTE.—"Selfishness prevents us from be-
holding God. The self-seeking spirit judges
of God as altogether such a one as itself.
Until we have renounced this, we cannot
understand Him who is love. Only the
unselfish heart, the humble and trustful
spirit, shall see God as 'merciful and gra-
cious, long-suffering, and abundant in good-
ness and truth.'
"—The Desire of Ages,
page 302.
"Righteousness is holiness, likeness to
God, and 'God is love.' 1 John 4:16. It is
conformity to the law of God, for 'all
Thy commandments are righteousness'
(Psalm 119:172), and 'love is the fulfilling
of the law' (Romans 13:10). Righteous-
ness is love, and love is the light and the
life of God. The righteousness of God
is embodied in Christ. We receive righ-
teousness by receiving
Him."-,-Thoughts
From the Mount of Blessing,
page 18.
3.
How did Jesus reveal the char-
acter of God? Acts 10:38.
4.
To what broad pattern of service
was He dedicated? Luke 4:18, 19.
[ 4 ]
The Effects of Goodness
God's Ideal for Man
5.
What is said of man in his
natural state? Ps. 14:2, 3.
NOTE.—"We must behold Christ. It is
ignorance of Him that makes men so up-
lifted in their own righteousness. When
we contemplate His purity and excellence,
we shall see our own weakness and poverty
and defects as they really
are."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
page 159.
6.
What part does f:'
,
od's goodness
play in man's salvation? Rom.
2:4.
NOTE.—"Without the divine working,
man could do no good thing. God calls
every man to repentance, yet man cannot
even repent unless the Holy Spirit works
upon his heart. . . . The Saviour is con-
tinually drawing men to repentance ; they
need only to submit to be drawn, and their
hearts will be melted in penitence."—Tes-
timonies,
Vol. 8, pp. 64, 65.
7.
To be filled with God's goodness,
how intense must be our desire? Ps.
107:9; Matt. 5:6.
Nom.—"As His goodness, His mercy,
and His love are dwelt upon, clearer and
still clearer will be the perception of truth;
higher, holier, the desire for purity of heart
and clearness of
thought."—Testimonies,
Vol. 8, p. 322.
8.
With what other fruits of the
Spirit is goodness identified? Gal.
5:22, 23.
NOTE.—"Those who become new crea-
tures in Christ Jesus will bring forth the
fruits of the Spirit. . . . The proud and
self-assertive become meek and lowly in
heart. The vain and supercilious become
serious and unobtrusive. The drunken be-
come sober, and the profligate pure. The
vain customs and fashions of the world are
laid
aside."—Steps to Christ,
page 58.
9.
How exalted is the standard for
Christian conduct? 1 Peter 1:15, 16;
Matt. 5:48; Eph. 4:13.
Nom.—The word here translated "con-
versation" really means "conduct" or "way
of living."
"By sin the image of God in man has
been marred and well-nigh obliterated; it
is the work of the gospel to restore that
which has been lost; and we are to co-
operate . . . in this
work."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 743.
"God's ideal for His children is higher
than the highest human thought can
reach. . . .
"The ideal of Christian character is
Christlikeness. As the Son of man was
perfect in His life, so His followers are to
be perfect in their life."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 311.
10.
How far-reaching is the influ-
ence of a godly life? Matt. 5:16;
1 Peter 2:12.
Nom.—"The Jews thought to confine
the benefits of salvation to their own
nation; but Christ showed them that sal-
vation is like the sunshine. It belongs to
the whole world. The religion of the Bible
is not to be confined between the covers
of a book, nor within the walls of a church.
It is not to be brought out occasionally for
our own benefit, and then to be carefully
laid aside again. It is to sanctify the daily
life, to manifest itself in every business
transaction and in all our social relations."
—The Desire of Ages,
pages 306, 307.
11.
How are the believers described
who look for the Lord's coming?
Titus 2:11-14.
Nom.—The word "peculiar" here has
the connotation of "special" or "set apart."
We must be different from the world in an
attractive sort of way, not odd and eccen-
tric in an offensive way.
C6]
"How many shrink from the purifying
process! They are unwilling to live out
the truth, unwilling to appear singular in
the eyes of the world. It is this mingling
with the world that destroys our spiritu-
ality, pureness, and zeal. Satan's power is
constantly exercised to stupefy the sensi-
bilities of God's people, that their con-
sciences may not be sensitive to wrong, and
that the sign of distinction between them
and the world may be destroyed."—Tes-
timonies,
Vol. 1, pp. 274, 275.
The Power for Noble Living
and Its Reward
12. What noble aim is expressed in
the apostolic benediction to the He-
brews? Heb. 13:20, 21.
NoTE.—"Holiness is not rapture: it is
an entire surrender of the will to God; it
is living by every word that proceeds from
the mouth of God; it is doing the will
of our heavenly Father; it is trusting God
in trial, in darkness as well as in the light;
it is walking by faith and not by sight; it
is relying on God with unquestioning con-
fidence, and resting in His love."—The
Acts
of the Apostles,
page 51.
13. What reward is in store for
those who measure up to the Chris-
tian standard? Matt. 25:21.
NOTE.—"Upon the heads of the over-
comers, Jesus with His own right hand
places the crown of glory. For each there
is a crown, bearing his own 'new name'
(Revelation 2:17), and the inscription,
`Holiness to the Lord.' .
"Before the ransomed throng is the Holy
City. Jesus opens wide the pearly gates,
and the nations that have kept the truth
enter in. There they behold the Paradise
of God, the home of Adam in his inno-
cency. Then that voice, richer than any
music that ever fell on mortal ear, is
heard, saying: 'Your conflict is ended.'
`Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit
the kingdom prepared for you from the
foundation of the world.'
"—The Great
Controversy,
page 646.
Lesson 2, for April 9, 1966
Faithfulness and Dependability
MEMORY VERSE:
"He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in
much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much." Luke
16:10.
STUDY HELPS:
"Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 272-285; "The Acts of the Apostles,"
pages 546-556; "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 325-365; "S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: Read the Intro-
duction; survey lesson,
following outline.
0
Sunday: Ques. 1-4; read first
study help.
0
Monday: Ques. 5-9; read second
study help.
0
Check Here
Tuesday: Ques. 10-12; read
third study help.
❑
Wednesday: Ques. 13-15.
❑
Thursday: Review Ques. 1-9;
learn memory verse.
❑
Friday: Review Ques. 10-15;
meditate on Key Thought.
❑
[6]
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Faithfulness a Divine Attribute
1.
Assurance of God's faithfulness.
Isa. 25:1; 1 Cor. 1:9.
2.
God's faithfulness described.
Lam. 3:22, 23; 1 Cor. 10:13.
3.
Abiding nature of His faithfulness.
Ps. 119:89, 90, 160 ; 2 Tim. 2:13.
4.
The example of Jesus. Luke 6:12;
Matt. 4:10; Luke 4:16;
Mark 12:17.
II. Faithful Witnesses of Old
5.
Samuel defends his integrity.
1 Sam. 12:3, 4.
6.
Incentive to faithfulness. 1 Sam.
12:24.
7.
Job's integrity. Job 1:20-22.
8.
Daniel's fidelity. Dan. 6:10.
9.
Nehemiah's steadfastness. Neh.
6:3, 4.
Ill. Fidelity in Life's Routines
10.
Faithfulness in every responsibility.
Luke 16:10.
11.
Doing all things with our might.
Eccl. 9:10; Rom. 12:11.
12.
Test of stewardship. 1 Cor. 4:2.
IV. The Rewards of Faithfulness
13.
Promise made to servants who had
improved their talents. Matt. 25:
21, 23.
14.
Reward assured to those who per-
severe. Gal. 6:9.
•
15.
Happy prospect of those who en-
dure. Matt. 24:13 ; Rev. 2:10,
last part.
Key Thought:
"Success is not the result of chance or
of destiny; it is . . . the reward of faith
and discretion, of virtue and persevering
effort."-Christ's Object Lessons,
page
353.
THE LESSON
Introduction
In a world of shifting values and moral
defection such as is ours today, leaders of
industry and finance place a high premium
on the dependable man or woman. They
recognize the quality of fidelity in men by
appointing them to high office, heavy re-
sponsibilities, and rich remuneration. God
has a high standard of attainment for His
church in these last days, too, and "the
eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout
the whole earth, to show Himself strong in
the behalf of them whose heart is perfect
toward Him." 2 Chron. 16:9. Only those
who measure up to the "high calling of
God in Christ Jesus" can share in the un-
speakable riches of His grace.
Faithfulness a Divine Attribute
1. What assurance are we given
that God is faithful? Isa. 25:1; 1 Cor.
1:9.
NoTE.-"That which above all other con-
siderations should lead us to prize the
Bible is that in it is revealed to men the
will of God. Here we learn the object of
our creation and the means by which that
object may be attained. We learn how to
improve wisely the present life and how
to secure the future
life."-Counsels to
Parents, Teachers, and Students,
page 53.
2. How is the faithfulness of God
further described? Lam. 3:22, 23;
1 Cor. 10:13.
NOTE.-"The
Bible shows us God in His
high and holy place, not in a state of in-
activity, not in silence and solitude, but
surrounded by ten thousand times ten
thousand and thousands of thousands of
holy beings, all waiting to do His will.
Through these messengers He is in active
communication with every part of His
dominion. By His Spirit He is every-
where present. Through the agency of
His Spirit and His angels He ministers to
the children of men."-The
Ministry of
Healing,
page 417.
[7
]
3. How abiding is God's faithful-
7. What did Job do when deprived
ness? Ps. 119:89, 90, 160; 2 Tim. 2:13. of his dearest possessions? Job 1:
20-22.
NOTE.—"It is not by inherent power that
year by year the earth yields its bounties
and continues its march around the sun.
The hand of the Infinite One is perpet-
ually at work guiding this planet. It is
God's power continually exercised that
keeps the earth in position in its rotation."
--The Ministry of Healing,
page 416.
4.
How did Jesus show His fidelity
to heaven's principles in personal
devotion? Luke 6:12. In resisting
temptation? Matt. 4:10. In Sabbath
keeping? Luke 4:16. In good citizen-
ship? Mark 12:17.
NoTE.—"We must put on the heavenly
graces, and, with the eye directed upward
to the crown of immortality, keep the
Pattern ever before
us."—Testimonies,
Vol.
2,
p. 358.
Faithful Witnesses of Old
5.
In his parting speech to Israel
as their ruler, how did Samuel de-
fend his integrity, and what did the
people acknowledge? 1 Sam. 12:3, 4.
8.
What example of faithfulness
did Daniel set? Dan. 6:10.
NOTE.—"Why should he cease to pray
now, when he most needed to pray?
Rather would he relinquish life itself, than
his hope of help in God. . . . He did not
try to conceal his act. Although he knew
full well the consequences of his fidelity to
God, his spirit faltered not. . . . Neither the
king nor his decree could make him swerve
from allegiance to the King of kings."—
Prophets and Kings,
pages 541, 542.
•
9.
What example of fidelity did
Nehemiah show in the work of the
Lord? Neh. 6:3, 4.
NOTE.—"The faith of him who is con-
stantly advancing does not weaken; for
above, beneath, beyond, he recognizes In-
finite Love, working out all things to ac-
complish His good purpose. God's true
servants work with a determination that
will not fail, because the throne of grace
is their constant dependence."—Prophets
and Kings,
page 660.
Fidelity in Life's Routines
NOTE.—"Samuel was not seeking merely
to justify his own course. He had pre-
viously set forth the principles that should
govern both the king and the people, and
he desired to add to his words the weight
of his own example. From childhood he
had been connected with the work of God,
and during his long life one object had
been ever before him—the glory of God
and the highest good of
Israel."—Patri-
archs and Prophets,
page 614.
6. What reason for faithfully serv-
ing God was set before Israel in the
days of Samuel? 1 Sam. 12:24.
10. What basic principle is found
in the work and conduct of a reliable
person? Luke 16:10.
NOTE.—"All may be certain that faith-
fulness in little things is the evidence of
fitness for greater responsibilities. Every
act of life is a revelation of character, and
he only who in small duties proves him-
self 'a workman that needeth not to be
ashamed' can be honored by God with
higher
service."—Prophets and Kings,
page
218.
[ 8
1
11.
What should be our attitude
to our daily tasks? Eccl. 9:10; Rom.
12:11.
NOTE.—"Whether pleasing or unpleasing,
we are to do the duty that lies nearest. . . .
"He does not permit us to pass by the
homely but sacred duties that lie next
us. Often these duties afford the very train-
ing essential to prepare us for a higher
work. Often our plans fail that God's
plans for us may succeed."—The
Ministry
of Healing,
page 473.
"Examine under the microscope the
smallest and commonest of wayside blos-
soms, and note in all its parts the exquisite
beauty and completeness. So in the hum-
blest lot true excellence may be found; the
commonest tasks, wrought with loving
faithfulness, are beautiful in God's sight."
—Education,
page 114.
12.
What is the test of Christian
stewardship? 1 Cor. 4:2. •
NOTE.—"The knowledge of God's grace,
the truths of His Word, and temporal
gifts as well,—time and means, talents and
influence,—are all a trust from God to be
employed to His glory and the salvation
of men. Nothing can be more offensive
to God, who is constantly bestowing His
gifts upon man, than to see him selfishly
grasping these gifts and making no returns
to the
Giver."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5, pp.
731, 732.
The Rewards of Faithfulness
13.
What promise was made to the
faithful servants who had improved
their talents? Matt. 25:21, 23.
NoTE.—"The talents, however few, are to
be put to use. The question that most
concerns us is not, How much have I
received? but, What am I doing with that
which I have
?"—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 329.
•
"Our reward for working with Christ
in this world is the greater power and
wider privilege of working with Him in
the world to come."—Ibid.,
p:
361.
14.
How will those who persevere
be rewarded? Gal. 6:9.
NOTE.—"Holiness will lead its possessor
to be fruitful and abound in all good
works. He will never become weary in
well-doing, neither will he look for pro-
motion in this world. He will look forward
for promotion to the time when the Maj-
esty of heaven shall exalt the sanctified
ones to His throne. . . . The Lord then
enumerates the works of self-denial and
mercy, compassion and righteousness, which
they had
wrought."—Testimonies, Vol.
2,
p. 445.
15.
What assurance is given those
who patiently endure earth's trials?
Matt. 24:13; Rev. 2:10, last part.
Lesson 3, for April 16, 1966
Temperance and Sobriety
MEMORY VERSE:
"Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all
to the glory of God." 1 Cor. 10:31.
STUDY HELPS:
"Testimonies," Vol. 2, pp. 354-376; "Prophets and Kings," pages
479-490; "The Ministry of Healing," pages 325-335; "Temperance," pages
137-169; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
E9]
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: Survey les-
Wednesday: Ques. 11-14;
son, following the outline.
❑
read third study help.
0
Sunday: Read Introduction;
Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8;
Ques. 1-5.
❑
read fourth study help;
Monday: Ques. 6-8; read first
learn memory verse.
0
study help.
❑
Friday: Review Ques. 9-14;
Tuesday: Ques. 9, 10; read
meditate on Key Thought.
second study help.
❑
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Warnings 'and Obligations
1.
Timely warning. Luke 21:34.
2.
Obligations on Christians. 1 Cor.
6:19, 20; 3:16, 17.
3.
The principle in self-mastery.
1 Cor. 9:25-27.
4.
Moderation in all things. 1 Cor.
10:31; Col. 3:23.
5.
Responsibilities of administrators.
Prov. 31:4, 5.
II. Daniel's Example and Belshazzar's
Feast
6.
Daniel's resolution and its results.
Dan. 1:8, 12, 15.
7.
God's displeasure on Belshazzer.
Dan. 5:1-4.
8.
Retribution on the king.
Dan. 5:5, 30.
III. John the Baptist and Herod Antipas
9.
The prophecy concerning John the
Baptist. Luke 1:15.
10.
The intemperate wrath of Herod.
Mark 6:18, 21-27.
IV. Temperance in All Things
11.
The broad principle of conduct for
the church. Titus 2:1-6.
12.
Personal responsibility for our
conduct. Rom. 14:21; Hab. 2:15.
13.
Temperance in speech. Col. 4:6;
Matt. 5:37.
14.
Safeguard against modern excesses.
Phil. 4:5; Col. 3:17.
Key Thought:
"Men and women . . . need to be im-
pressed with the fact that all their powers
of mind and body are the gift of God,
and are to be preserved in the best possible
condition for His service."-The
Ministry
of Healing,
page 130.
THE LESSON
Introduction
Only the temperate are free from spiri-
tual bondage and ready for the infilling
of God's power. The broad principle of
moderation in all things lawful for our
use calls not only for abstinence from
liquor and narcotics, but for a check on
every form of excess, whether mental or
physical. In eating and drinking, in labor,
study, and recreation, moderition is an
admirable Christian virtue.
Warnings and Obligations
1. Of what must those beware who
look for Jesus' coming? Luke 21:34.
NOTE.
-"Men
who are engaged in giving
the last message of warning to the world, a
message which is to decide the destiny of
souls, should make a practical application
10
in their own lives of the truths they
preach to others. They should be examples
to the people in their eating, in their drink-
ing, and in their chaste conversation and
deportment."—Testimonies, Vol. 3, pp.
490, 491.
2.
What solemn sense of obligation
should deter Christians from sensual
indulgences? 1 Cor. 6:19, 20; 3:16, 17.
NorE.---"If all who profess to be follow-
ers of Christ were truly sanctified, their
means, instead of being spent for needless
and even hurtful indulgences, would be
turned into the Lord's treasury, and Chris-
tians would set an example of temperance,
self-denial, and self-sacrifice. Then they
would be the light of the world."—The
Great Controversy,
page 475.
"He who remains in willing ignorance
of the laws of his physical being and who
violates them through ignorance is sinning
against
God."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 348.
3.
What is the fundamental prin-
ciple in self-mastery, and how did
Paul exercise it? 1 Cor. 9:25-27.
NOTE.—"As our first parents lost Eden
through the indulgence of appetite, our
only hope of regaining Eden is through the
firm denial of appetite and passion. Ab-
stemiousness in diet and control of all the
passions will preserve the intellect and
give mental and moral vigor, enabling men
to bring all their propensities under the
control of the higher powers and to discern
between right and wrong, the sacred and
the
common."—Testimonies,
Vol. 3, p. 491.
4.
What spiritual objective should
inspire moderation and self-control
in all things? 1 Cor. 10:31; Col. 3:23.
NOTE.—"To have firm religious prin-
ciples is an inestimable treasure. It is the
purest, highest, and most elevated in-
fluence mortals can possess.' Such have
an anchor. Every act is well considered,
lest its effect be injurious to another and
lead away from Christ. The constant in-
quiry of the mind is: Lord, how shall I
best serve Thee, and glorify Thy name in
the earth
?"—Testimonies,
Vol. 2, p. 129.
5.
What social evils result from the
intemperance of rulers and legisla-
tors? Prov. 31:4, 5.
NOTE.—"Oh, how often has the life of
the innocent been sacrificed through the
intemperance of those who should have
been guardians of justice! . . Those who
have jurisdiction over the lives of their
fellowmen should be held guilty of a
crime when they yield to intemperance.
All who execute the laws should be law
keepers. They should be men of self-con-
trol. They need to have full command of
their physical, mental, and moral powers,
that they may possess vigor of intellect,
and a high sense of justice."—The
Desire
of Ages,
page 222.
Daniel's Example and
Belshazzar's Feast
6.
When offered the king's dainties,
what resolve did Daniel make and
what did he propose? What was the
result? Dan. 1:8, 12, 15.
NOTE.—"Daniel and his associates had
been trained by their parents to habits of
strict temperance. They had been taught
that God would hold them accountable
for their capabilities, and that they must
never dwarf or enfeeble their powers. This
education was to Daniel and his compan-
ions the means of their preservation amidst
the demoralizing influences of the court of
Babylon."—Prophets and Kings,
page 482.
7.
What abandoned conduct
brought God's displeasure upon Bel-
shazzar? Dan. 5:1-4.
NOTE.—"With reason dethroned through
shameless intoxication, and with lower im-
pulses and passions now in the ascendancy,
the king himself took the lead in the
riotous orgy. . . .
"Little did Belshazzar think that there
was a heavenly Witness to his idolatrous
revelry; that a divine Watcher, unrecog-
nized, looked upon the scene of profana-
tion, heard the sacrilegious mirth, beheld
the
idolatry."—Prophets and Kings,
pages
523, 524.
8.
How swift was the retribution
upon the king? Dan. 5:5, 30.
John the Baptist and
Herod Antipas
9.
What was prophesied of John
the Baptist before his birth? Luke
1:15.
NoTE.—"In the time of John the Baptist,
greed for riches, and the love of luxury
and display had become widespread. Sen-
suous pleasures, feasting and drinking, were
causing physical disease and degeneracy,
benumbing the spiritual perceptions, and
lessening the sensibility to sin. John was
to stand as a reformer. By his abstemious
life and plain dress he was to rebuke the
excesses of his time. Hence the directions
given to the parents of John,—a lesson of
temperance by an angel from the throne
of heaven."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages
100, 101.
10.
Rebuked by John the Baptist
for his profligacy, to what intemper-
ate lengths did Herod go? Mark 6:
18, 21-27.
NOTE.—"The king was dazed with wine.
Passion held sway, and reason was de-
throned. . . .
"Oh, how often has the life of the in-
nocent been sacrificed through the intem-
perance of those who should have been
guardians of justice! He who puts the
intoxicating cup to his lips makes himself
responsible for all the injustice he may
commit under its besotting power."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages
221, 222.
Temperance in All Things
11.
What broad principle of con-
duct did Paul give Titus for the
church? Titus 2:1-6.
12.
How responsible are we for
our conduct and influence? Rom.
14:21; Hab. 2:15.
NoTE.—"Through Christ, God has in-
vested man with an influence that makes
it impossible for him to live to himself.
Individually we are connected with our
fellowmen, a part of God's great whole,
and we stand under mutual obliga-
tions. . . .
"This is a responsibility from which we
cannot free ourselves. Our words, our acts,
our dress, our deportment, even the ex-
pression of the countenance, has an in-
fluence."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page
339.
13.
What admonition is given to
us regarding our speech? Col. 4:6;
Matt.
5:37.
NOTE.—"No evilspeaking, no frivolous
talk, no fretful repining or impure sug-
gestion, will escape the lips of him who is
following
Christ."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 337.
"God's Word condemns also the use of
those meaningless phrases and expletives
that border on profanity. It condemns the
deceptive compliments, the evasions of
truth, the exaggerations, the misrepresenta-
tions in trade, that are current in society
and in the business
world."—Education,
page 236.
14.
What principle, if heeded, will
keep us from the excesses of our
time? Phil.
4:5;
Col. 3:17.
NOTE.—"Whatever our department of
labor, be it housework or field work or
intellectual pursuits, we may perform it to
the glory of God so long as we make Christ
first and last and best in everything."—
Testimonies,
Vol.
5,
p. 459.
•
F 12
1
Lesson 4, for April 22, 1466
Liberality and Benevolence
MEMORY VERSE: "I
have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to
support the weak, and to, remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He
said, It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35.
STUDY HELPS:
"Gospel Workers," pages 454-457; "The Acts of the Apostles,"
pages 335-345; "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 525-536; "S.D.A. Bible
Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check
Here
Sabbath afternoon: Survey the
second study help.
lesson, following outline.
❑
Wednesday: Ques. 12-15; read
Sunday: Read Introduction;
third study help.
Ques. 1-3.
❑
Thursday: Review Ques. 1-7;
Monday: Ques. 4-7; read first
study help.
❑
Friday: Review Ques. 8-15;
learn memory verse.
meditate on Key Thought.
Tuesday: Ques. 8-11; read
Check Here
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. God's Ownership
1. God the source of all wealth.
1 Chron. 29:11, 12, 14.
2. God's claim on the world's wealth.
Ps. 89:11; Hag. 2:8.
3. Spiritual danger of the prosperous.
Deut. 8:11-14, 18.
II. God's Requirements in Tithes
and Offerings
4. God's proportion of men's income.
Lev. 27:30, 32.
5. Promise to the tithe payer.
Mal. 3:10-12.
6. Israel's offerings for the tabernacle.
Ex. 35:29.
7. Attitudes in giving contrasted.
2 Cor. 9:7; Matt. 6:1.
III. The Rewards of Generous Giving
8.
The law of sowing and reaping.
2 Cor. 9:6; John 12:24.
9.
Promise to those who honor God
with gifts. Prov. 3:9, 10.
10.
How God rewards the giver.
Luke 6:38.
11.
Blessings delayed yet assured.
Eccl. 11:1.
IV. Liberality Among Brethren
12.
Paul recalls Jesus' words on giving.
Acts 20:35.
13.
Those who fail to feel a brother's
need. 1 John 3:17.
14.
Promises to those who share.
Prov. 11:25; 19:17; 22:9.
15.
Our abiding sufficiency. 2 Cor. 3:5.
Key Thought:
"Spiritual prosperity is closely bound
up with Christian liberality."-The
Acts of
the Apostles,
page 344.
THE LESSON
a miserly one. The truly thrifty person
saves that he may give intelligently. True
benevolence is not extravagance and impul-
sive spending, but a consecrated directing
of what we have to share into worthy
[
13]
Introduction
The rich life is the outflowing life.
Stated Scripturally, "The liberal soul shall
be made fat." The penny-pinching soul is
channels. The philanthropy that Heaven
approves is the serving of a neighbor's
needs out of a scanty store rather than
ostentatious giving from lavish profits. The
test of liberality is not in the size of the
gift, but in the simple principle, "God
loveth a cheerful giver."
God's Ownership
1.
How did David acknowledge
God as the source and distributor of
all wealth? 1 Chron. 29:11, 12, 14.
NOTE.—"All that men receive of God's
bounty still belongs to God. Whatever He
has bestowed in the valuable and beautiful
things of earth is placed in our hands to
test us, to sound the depths of our love
for Him and our appreciation of His fa-
vors."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 736.
2.
To how much of the world's
wealth does God lay claim? Ps. 89:
11; Hag. 2:8.
NOTE.—"Every good thing of earth was
placed here by the bountiful hand of God
as an expression of His love to man. The
poor are His, and the cause of religion is
His. The gold and the silver are the
Lord's, and He could rain them from
heaven if He chose. But instead of this
He has made man His steward, entrusting
him with means, not to be hoarded, but
to be used in benefiting others."—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 9, p. 255.
3.
Against what danger are the
prosperous warned? Deut. 8:11-14, 18.
NOTE.—"It is God who gives men power
to get wealth, and He has bestowed this
ability, not as a means of gratifying self,
but as a means of returning to God His
own. With this object it is not a sin to
acquire means. . . . Wealth will prove a
blessing if we regard it as the Lord's, to
be received with thankfulness and with
thankfulness returned to the Giver."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 6, pp. 452, 453.
God's Requirements in Tithes
and Offerings
4.
What proportion of the bounties
God gives to men does He require
us to return? Lev. 27:30, 32.
NOTE.—"As to the amount required, God
has specified one tenth of the increase.
This is left to the conscience and benevo-
lence of men, whose judgment in this tith-
ing system should have free play. . . .
"All that is withheld of that which God
claims, the tenth of the increase, is re-
corded in the books of heaven against the
withholders, as
robbery."—Testimonies,
Vol. 3, p. 394.
5.
What remarkable promise is
given to the faithful tithe payer?
Mal. 3:10-12.
Non.—"Whenever God's people, in any
period of the world, have cheerfully and
willingly carried out His plan in system-
atic benevolence and in gifts and offerings,
they have realized the standing promise
that prosperity should attend all their
labors just in proportion as they obeyed
His requirements. . . . But when they
robbed God in tithes and in offerings they
were made to realize that they were not
only robbing Him but themselves, for He
limited His blessings to them just in pro-
portion as they limited their offerings to
Him."—Testinionies,
Vol. 3, p. 395.
6.
In what spirit did the children
of Israel bring their offerings for the
building of the tabernacle? Ex. 35:29.
NOTE.—"The plan of Moses to raise
means for the building of the tabernacle was
highly successful. No urging was necessary.
Nor did he employ any of the devices to
which churches in our day so often re-
f
14]
sort. He made no grand feast. He did
not invite the people to scenes of gaiety,
dancing, and general amusement. . . . He
was to accept gifts from everyone that
gave willingly, from his heart. And the
offerings came in so great abundance that
Moses bade the people cease bringing, for
they had supplied more than could be
used."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 529.
"God requires no less of His people in
these last days, in sacrifices and offerings,
than He did of the Jewish nation. Those
whom He has blessed with a competency,
and even the widow and the fatherless,
should not be unmindful of His blessings.
Especially should those whom He has pros-
pered render to Him the things that are
His. They should appear before Him with
a spirit of
self-sacrifice."—Testimonies,
Vol.
2, p. 599.
7.
What attitude in a giver does
God approve? How does He rebuke
the proud giver? 2 Cor. 9:7; Matt.
6:1.
The Rewards of Generous Giving
8.
What is the law of sowing and
reaping? 2 Cor. 9:6; John 12:24.
NOTE.—"By casting it away the sower
multiplies his seed. So by imparting we
increase our blessings. God's promise as-
sures a sufficiency, that we may continue to
give. . . .
"The law of self-sacrifice is the law-of
self-preservation."—Education, page 110.
9.
What promise is assured to those
who honor God with their best gifts?
Prov. 3:9, 10.
NOTE.—"In every dispensation, from
Adam's time to ours, God has claimed the
property of man, saying: I am the rightful
owner of the universe; therefore conse-
crate to Me thy firstfruits, bring a tribute
of loyalty, surrender to Me My own, thus
acknowledging My sovereignty, and you
shall be free to retain and enjoy My boun-
ties, and My blessing shall be with you."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 477.
10.
In what generous way does
God reward the liberal giver? Luke
6:38.
NOTE.—"Would men make their property
secure? Let them place it in the hands
that bear the marks of the crucifixion.
Would they enjoy their substance? Let
them use it to bless the needy and suffering.
Would they increase their possessions?
Let them heed the divine injunction,
`Honor the Lord with thy substance, and
with the firstfruits of all thine increase.'
"—
The Acts of the Apostles,
page 345.
11.
Although the blessings of be-
nevolence may seem delayed, of what
is the generous giver assured? Eccl.
11:1.
NOTE.—"In this life our work for God
often seems to be almost fruitless. Our
efforts to do good may be earnest and
persevering, yet we may not be permitted
to 'witness their results. To us the effort
may seem to be lost. But the Saviour as-
sures us that our work is noted in heaven,
and that the recompense cannot fail."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 6, p. 305.
Liberality Among Brethren
12.
In counseling the church to
care for its needy, what words of
Jesus did Paul recall? Acts 20:35.
NOTE.—"Paul sometimes worked night
and day, not only for his own support,
but that he might assist his fellow laborers.
He shared his earnings with Luke, and he
helped Timothy. He even suffered hunger
at times, that he might relieve the neces-
sities of others."—The
Acts of the Apos-
tles,
page 352.
13.
What is lacking in the experi-
ence of those who fail to feel a
brother's need? 1 John 3:17.
f 15
NOTE.-
" Tor to share is the bliss of heaven, as
it is the joy of earth;
And the unshared bread lacks savor,
and the wine unshared lacks zest;
And the joy of the soul redeemed would
be little, little worth
If, content with its own security, it
14. What liberal promises are
made to those who share their boun-
ties? Prov. 11:25; 19:17; 22:9.
could forget the rest.' "
—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,
15. Who is our abiding sufficiency
1943 ed., p. 112.
in every good work? 2 Cor. 3:5.
Lesson 5, for April 30, 1966
Self-Denial and Sacrifice
MEMORY VERSE:
"Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after
Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." Matt. 16:24.
STUDY HELPS:
"Testimonies," Vol. 2, pp. 200-215; Vol. 3, pp. 485-492; Vol. 4,
pp. 571-575; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson,
second study help.
following the outline.
❑
Wednesday: Ques. 12-14; read
Sunday: Read Introduction;
third study help.
Ques. 1-4.
❑
Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8;
Monday: Ques. 5-8; read first
learn memory verse.
O
study help.
❑
Friday: Review Ques. 9-14;
Tuesday: Ques. 9-11; read
meditate on Key Thought.
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Divine Example in Sacrifice
1.
God's love for the world. John
3:16.
2.
The supreme sacrifice of Jesus.
John 10:15, 17, 18, 30.
3.
How Jesus met temptation.
Luke 4:1-4.
4.
The marks of a true disciple.
Matt. 16:24; Luke 9:23.
II. Patterns in Self-Denial
5.
The self-abnegation of John the
Baptist. Mark 1:7; John 3:30.
6.
The complete consecration of Paul.
Phil. 3:7, 8.
7. The example of Epaphroditus.
Phil. 2:25-30.
8. Jesus' reply to Peter's complaint.
Matt. 19:27-29.
III. Admonitions to Believers
9. Every Christian called to conse-
cration. 1 Peter 2:21-24.
10. The battle against sin. Col.
3:5, 8; 1 Peter 2:11.
11. Paul's example in self-discipline.
1 Cor. 9:27.
IV. The Heavenly Goal
12. Admonitions to believers in the
advent. Titus 2:11-13,
f
16 J
13.
Earthly gain against eternal loss.
Key Thought:
Mark 8:34-37.
"True happiness will be the result of
14.
Promise to those who suffer with
every self-denial, every crucifixion of self."
Christ. 2 Tim. 2:11, 12.
—Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 345.
THE LESSON
Introduction
In a self-indulgent, self-seeking, self-ap-
proving world like ours, a lesson on self-
denial and sacrifice goes contrary to the
innate sinful heart. Yet nothing elevates
the soul and strengthens the spirit like
resolute self-control which molds the con-
duct into patterns that Heaven can ap-
prove. Not until we enter truly into the
meaning of Christ's sacrifice for the world
can we partake of the spirit of His self-
denial in our service for Him. Although a
way of trials and crosses, it is the sure
road to happiness.
The Divine Example in Sacrifice
1.
How did God reveal the height
and depth and breadth of sacrificial
love? John 3:16.
NOTE.—"What an incomparable love is
this! A theme for the most profound
meditation! The amazing love of God for
a world that did not love Him! The
thought has a subduing power upon the
soul and brings the mind into captivity
to the will of
God."—Testimonies,
Vol. 4,
p. 80.
"He laid aside His glory, His dominion,
His riches, and sought after those who
were perishing in sin. He humbled Him-
self to our necessities, that He might ex-
alt us to heaven. Sacrifice, self-denial, and
disinterested benevolence characterized His
life. . . He is a perfect and holy example.
. . . Love for souls for whom Christ died
will lead to a denial of self and a willing-
ness to make any sacrifice in order to be
co-workers with Christ in the salvation of
souls."—Testimonies,
Vol.
2,
p. 549.
2.
How closely was Jesus in accord
with His Father in the redemption
of man? John 10:15, 17, 18, 30.
NOTE.—"I present before you the life of
self-denial, humility, and sacrifice of our
divine Lord. The Majesty of heaven, the
King of glory, left His riches, His splendor,
His honor and glory, and, in order to save
sinful man, condescended to a life of hu-
mility, poverty, and
shame."—Testimonies,
Vol. 2, pp. 490, 491.
3.
How did the Saviour overcome
the temptations of the flesh in the
wilderness? Luke 4:1-4.
NOTE.—"In our own strength it is im-
possible for us to deny the clamors of
our fallen nature. Through this channel
Satan will bring temptation upon us.
Christ knew that the enemy would come
to every human being, to take advantage
of hereditary weakness, and by his false
insinuations to ensnare all whose trust is
not in God. And by passing over the
ground which man must travel, our Lord
has prepared the way for us to overcome.
. . . 'Be of good cheer,' He says; 'I have
overcome the world.'
"—The Desire of
Ages,
pages 122, 123.
4.
What did Jesus set forth as the
mark of a true disciple? Matt. 16:24;
Luke 9:23.
Nom—Observe the word "daily" that
Luke adds to our memory verse.
"Yes, follow Him through evil as well
as through good report. Follow Him in
befriending the most needy and friend-
less. Follow Him in being forgetful of
self, abundant in acts of self-denial and
self-sacrifice to do others good; when
reviled, reviling not again; manifesting love
and compassion for the fallen
race."—Tes-
timonies,
Vol. 2, p. 178.
E 17 1
"We cannot equal the pattern; but we
shall not be approved of God if we do not
copy it and, according to the ability which
God has given, resemble
it."—Ibid.,
p. 549.
Patterns in Self-Denial
5.
What spirit of self-abnegation
did John the Baptist manifest? Mark
1:7;
John 3:30.
NOTE.—"For a time the Baptist's in-
fluence over the nation had been greater
than that of its rulers, priests, or
princes. . . .
"Now he saw the tide of popularity
turning away from himself to the Saviour.
Day by day the crowds about him les-
sened. . . .
"Looking in faith to the Redeemer, John
had risen to the height of self-abnegation.
He sought not to attract men to himself,
but to lift their thoughts higher and still
higher, until they should rest upon the
Lamb of
God."—The Desire of Ages,
pages
178, 179.
6.
How completely did Paul give
up worldly advantages that he might
know Christ? Phil. 3:7, 8.
7.
For what did Paul commend
Epaphroditus? Phil. 2:25-30.
NOTE.—The example of both Timothy
and Epaphroditus was in striking contrast
to the spirit of many whom Paul said
"seek their own, not the things which are
Jesus Christ's." See verse 21.
8.
What reply did Jesus make to
Peter's claim that the disciples had
sacrificed everything for the gospel?
Matt. 19:27-29.
NOTE.—"God gave all for man and He
asks him to place His service above every
earthly and selfish consideration. He can-
not accept a divided heart. The heart that
is absorbed in earthly affections cannot be
given up to
God."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 223,
Admonitions to Believers
9.
To what complete consecration is
every Christian called? 1 Peter 2:
21-24.
NOTE.—"A noble, all-round character is
not inherited. It does not come to us by
accident. A noble character is earned by
individual effort through the merits and
grace of Christ. . . . It is formed by hard,
stern battles with self. Conflict after con-
flict must be waged against hereditary ten-
dencies."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
page
331.
10.
Against what physical and spir-
itual temptations must we wage bat-
tle? Col. 3:5, 8; 1 Peter 2:11.
11.
How did Paul set an example
in self-discipline? 1 Cor. 9:27.
NOTE.—"We are under solemn obliga-
tions to God to keep the spirit pure and
the body healthy, that we may be a benefit
to humanity, and render to God perfect
service."—Testimonies, Vol.
2, p. 381.
"To all those who fully comply with the
conditions in God's Word, and have a sense
of their responsibility to preserve physical
vigor and activity of body, that they may
have well-balanced minds and healthy mor-
als, the race is not uncertain. They all
may gain the prize, and win and wear the
crown of immortal glory that fadeth not
away."—Ibid.,
Vol. 4, p. 35.
The Heavenly Goal
12.
What will be the manner of
life of those who look for the coming
of the Lord? Titus 2:11-13.
[ 18 ]
NOTE.—"The Lord, by close and pointed
truths for these last days, is cleaving out
a people from the world and purifying them
unto Himself. Pride and unhealthful fash-
ions, the love of display, the love of appro-
bation—all must be left with the world
if we would be renewed in knowledge after
the image of Him who created
us."—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 3, p. 52.
13. How does God weigh self-
.
denial and unselfish devotion against
worldly gain? Mark 8:34-37.
NOTE.—"Selfishness is death. No organ
of the body could live should it confine
its service to itself. The heart, failing to
send its lifeblood to the hand and the
head, would quickly lose its power. As
our lifeblood, so is the love of Christ
diffused through every part of His mystical
body. We are members one of another,
and the soul that refuses to impart will
perish."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 417.
14. What assurance is given to all
who die to self and suffer for Christ's
sake? 2 Tim. 2:11, 12.
NOTE.—"Were it possible to reach the
tree of life in the midst of the Paradise of
God without suffering, we would not enjoy
so rich a reward for which we had not
suffered. We would shrink back from the
glory ; shame would seize us in the presence
of those who had fought the good fight,
had run the race with patience, and had
laid hold on eternal life. But none will be
there who have not, like Moses, chosen to
suffer affliction with the people of God."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 1, p. 78.
Lesson 6, for May 7, 1966
Purity and Morality
MEMORY VERSE:
"Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the
issues
of life." Prov.
4:23.
STUDY HELPS:
"Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 591-603; Vol. 9, pp. 89-96; "The Ministry
of Healing," pages
356-362; "S.D.A.
Bible Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson,
following the outline.
❑
Sunday: Read Introduction;
Ques.
1-4.
❑
Monday: Ques. 5-8; read first
study help.
❑
Tuesday: Ques. 9-12; read
Check Here
second study help.
Wednesday: Ques. 13-15; read
third study help.
Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8;
learn memory verse.
0
Friday: Review Ques. 9-15;
meditate on Key Thought.
❑
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Guarding the Soul Against Evil
1. Source of purity and moral con-
duct. Titus 1:15; Prov. 15:26;
Matt. 15:19.
2.
A sobering deterrent against evil.
Hab. 1:13, first, part; Gen. 16:13.
3.
The natural condition of the heart.
Jer. 17:9.
4.
How we are kept from impurity.
Prov. 4:23; Phil. 4:8; Ps. 51:10.
19
II. Lessons From the Past
5.
Joseph in Potiphar's house.
Gen. 39:9, last part.
6.
David's acknowledgment of sin.
His reminder of God's requirements.
Ps. 51:7; 24:3, 4.
7.
Solomon's description of a virtuous
wife and mother. Prov. 31:10-12,
20, 27-29.
8.
Ruth preserved by her devotion.
Ruth 1:16.
III. Integrity in the Family
9.
Jesus' pronouncement on marriage.
Matt. 19:4-6.
10.
Relationship between husband and
wife. Eph. 5:22, 25.
11.
Children to honor their parents.
Eph. 6:1-3.
12.
Rules for harmony in the home.
Eph. 6:4; Prov. 6:20.
IV. Aspects of Pure Religion
13.
Pure religion defined. James 1:27.
14.
Admonitions for keeping the life
pure. Col. 3 :5 ; Rom. 8:12-14.
15.
Guarding our influence. 1 Thess.
5:22.
Key Thought:
"We need a constant sense of the ennob-
ling power of pure thoughts. The only
security for any soul is right thinking."-
The Ministry of Healing,
page 491.
THE LESSON
Introduction
True morality is more than outward re-
spectability. It involves the thoughts and
attitudes of the mind as well as public
decorum and social relationships. The pure
in heart will be pure in conversation, honest
in dealing with others, and zealous in op-
posing every form of evil. The prevailing
licentiousness of the age, flaunted at us
from palaces of vice, from books and mag-
azines, from stage and screen, should be
a challenge to every Christian who loves
his Lord to "gird up the loins" of his mind
that the citadel of his soul may not be
invaded by evil.
Guarding the Soul Against Evil
1. What is the source of morality
and purity of conduct? Titus 1:15;
Prov. 15:26; Matt. 15:19.
NOTE.
-"The
thoughts of the heart are
discerned of God. When impure thoughts
are cherished, they need not be expressed
by word or act to consummate the sin and
bring the soul into condemnation. Its pur-
ity is defiled, and the tempter has
tri-
umphed."-Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 623.
"To a great degree the experiences of
life are the fruition of our own thoughts
and
deeds."-Education,
page 146.
2.
What should deter the Christian
believer from compromise with evil?
Hab. 1:13, first part; Gen. 16:13.
NOTE.
-"As
a shield from temptation
and an inspiration to purity and truth, no
other influence can equal the sense of God's
presence. 'All things are naked and opened
unto the eyes of Him with whom we have
to do.'
"-Education,
page 255.
3.
What is the natural condition of
the human heart? Jer. 17:9.
NOTE.
-"We
must search the Scriptures
with humble hearts, trembling at the word
of the Lord, if we would not be in any
way deceived in regard to our true charac-
ter
As Christians we are less thorough
in self-examination than in anything else;
it is no wonder, then, that we make such
slow advancement in understanding self."-
Testimonies,
Vol. 5, pp. 332, 333.
4.
What, then, will keep. us from
the sin of impurity? Prov. 4:23;
Phil 4:8. For what should we pray?
Ps. 51:10.
L201
NOTE.—"Man looketh on the outward
appearance, but the Lord looketh on the
heart'—the human heart, with its conflicting
emotions of joy and sorrow; the wander-
ing, wayward heart, which is the abode of
so much impurity and deceit. 1 Samuel
16:7. He knows its motives, its very in-
tents and purposes. Go to Him with your
soul all stained as it is. Like the psalmist,
throw its chambers open to the all-seeing
eye, exclaiming, 'Search me, 0 God, and
know my heart: try me, and know my
thoughts: and see if there be any wicked
way in me, and lead me in the way ever-
lasting.'
"—Steps to Christ,
pages 34, 35.
Lessons From the Past
5.
What was Joseph's reply to
temptation in the house of Potiphar?
Gen. 39:9, last part.
NoTE.—"The love and fear of God kept
Joseph pure and untarnished in the king's
court. . . .
"He showed the same sacred regard for
God's will when he stood next the throne
as when in a prisoner's cell. Joseph car-
ried his religion everywhere, and this was
the secret of his unwavering fidelity."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 544.
6.
How did David acknowledge
his sin, and what solemn reminder
of God's requirements has he left us?
Ps. 51:7; 24:3, 4.
NOTE.—"David's repentance was sincere
and deep. There was no effort to palliate
his crime. No desire to escape the judg-
ments threatened, inspired his prayer. But
he saw the enormity of his transgression
against God; he saw the defilement of his
soul; he loathed his sin. It was not for
pardon only that he prayed, but for purity
of heart. David did not in despair give
over the struggle. In the promises of God
to repentant sinners he saw the evidence
of his pardon and acceptance."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 725.
7.
What was the mature observa-
tion of Solomon regarding a suc-
cessful wife and mother? Prov. 31:
10-12, 20, 27-29.
NOTE.—"Human love should draw its
closest bonds from divine love. Only where
Christ reigns can there be deep, true, un-
selfish affection."—The
Ministry of Heal-
ing,
page 358.
"Around every family there is a sacred
circle that should be kept unbroken. Within
this circle no other person has a right to
come. Let not the husband or the wife
permit another to share the confidences
that belong solely to themselves."—Ibid.,
p. 361.
8.
What resolution preserved Ruth
in the land of her adoption? Ruth
1:16.
NOTE.—"To the great principle of love
and loyalty to God, the Father of all, the
principle of filial love and obedience is
closely related. Contempt for parental
authority will soon lead to contempt for
the authority of
God."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 337.
Integrity in the Family
9.
How did Jesus emphasize the
sacred nature of marriage? Matt. 19:
4-6.
NOTE.—"When the divine principles are
recognized and obeyed in this relation,
marriage is a blessing; it guards the purity
and happiness of the race, it provides for
man's social needs, it elevates the physical,
the intellectual, and the moral nature."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 46.
10.
How tender should be the re-
lationship between husband and
wife? Eph. 5:22, 25.
11.
What promise is made to chil-
dren who honor their parents? Eph.
6:1-3. See also Prov. 20:11.
[ 21 ]
NOTE.—"Jesus did not ignore His re-
lation to His earthly parents. . . . For
eighteen years after He had recognized that
He was the Son of God, He acknowledged
the tie that bound Him to the home at
Nazareth, and performed the duties of
a
son."—The Desire of Ages,
page 82.
12.
How may happy harmony in
the home be maintained? Eph. 6:4;
Prov. 6:20.
NOTE.—"Fathers and mothers, however
pressing your business, do not fail to
gather your family around God's altar.
Ask for the guardianship of holy angels in
your home. Remember that your dear
ones are exposed to temptations. Daily
annoyances beset the path of young and
old. Those who would live patient, loving,
cheerful lives must pray. . . .
"Home should be a place where cheerful-
ness, courtesy, and love abide; and where
these graces dwell, there will abide happi-
ness and peace."—The
Ministry of Heal-
ing,
page 393.
Aspects of Pure Religion
13.
How is pure religion defined?
James 1:27.
14.
What is necessary in maintain-
ing inward purity of mind and heart?
Col. 3:5; Rom. 8:12-14.
NorE.—"A terrible picture of the con-
dition of the world has been presented
before me. Immorality abounds every-
where.
Licentiousness is the special sin of
this age. Never did vice lift its deformed
head with such boldness as
now."—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 2,
p.
346.
"Choose poverty, reproach, separation
from friends, or any suffering rather than
to defile the soul with sin. Death before
dishonor or the transgression of God's law
should be the motto of every Christian."—
Ibid.,
Vol. 5,
p.
147.
15.
How should we guard our
Christian influence? 1 Thess. 5:22.
NOTE.—"A faithful record is kept of the
acts of the children of men. Nothing can
be concealed from the eye of the high and
holy
One."—Testinionies,
Vol. 1, p. 336.
"It is Satan's studied plan to make the
workers weak in prayer, weak in power,
and weak in influence. . . . We . . . must
be united in frowning down and condemn-
ing everything that bears the least approach
to
Vol. 5, p. 592.
"An ordinary
mind, well
disciplined, will accomplish
more and higher work than
will the most highly edu-
cated mind and the greatest
talents without self-control."
—Christ's Object Lessons,
page
335.
Lesson 7, for May 14, 1966
Patience and Forbearance
MEMORY VERSE:
"Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious powbr,
unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness." Col. 1:11.
STUDY HELPS:
"Gospel Workers,"
pages 475-480; "Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 331-
336; "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 243-251
;
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
[22]
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson,
following the outline.
❑
Sunday: Read Introduction;
Ques. 1-4.
❑
Monday: Ques. 5-8; read first
study help.
❑
Tuesday: Ques. 9-12; read
Check Here
second study help.
❑
Wednesday: Ques. 13, 14; read
third study help.
❑
Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8;
learn memory verse.
Friday: Review Ques. 9-14;
meditate on Key Thought.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Christ the Patient Sufferer
1.
As a lamb to the slaughter.
Isa. 53:7.
2.
Jesus comforts His disciples.
John 16:33.
3.
Following the Master. Rom. 15:5;
Col. 1:10, 11.
4.
Spirit of Paul's counsel. 2 Cor.
10:1.
II. The School of Discipline
5.
How to develop patience.
Heb. 12:5-7; Rom. 5:3.
6.
The experience of Moses. Heb.
11:24-27.
. 7. David's testimony in trial.
Ps. 40:1-3; 94:12.
8. Job's resolution in affliction.
Job. 40:3, 4.
III. The Practice of Patience
9.
Patience an active virtue.
1 Thess. 5:14, 15.
10.
Advice to Timothy applicable
today. 2 Tim. 2:24, 25.
11.
Sanctified speech and influence.
Titus 3:2; Prov. 15:1.
12.
Fortitude among brethren. Rom.
12:16; Col. 3:13.
IV. The Hope of the Church
13.
Harmony among brethren.
Eph. 4:2, 3 ; 2 Thess. 3:5.
14.
Patience until coming of the Lord.
Heb. 10:35-37; James 5:7, 8.
Key Thought:
"A Christian must have a sanctified
tenderness and love, in which there is no
impatience or fretfulness."-Testimonies,
Vol. 5,
p.
335.
THE LESSON
Introduction
The outward graces of gentleness to
the rude, of noble tolerance in trying cir-
cumstances, and of forbearance toward
thoughtless and thankless people, all arise
out of that inward strength of the soul
we recognize as patience. Moses exempli-
fied the grace in the midst of the disobe-
dience and unfaithfulness of God's chosen
people. Jesus gave us a majestic example
of it in His forgiveness of those who hated
Him, leaving us that counsel of His loving
heart. "Love your enemies, bless them that
curse you, do good to them that hate you,
and pray for them which despitefully use
you." Matt. 5:44. Surely the stress of
modern living demands a special watchful-
ness against annoyances that spoil our
equanimity of temper.
Christ the Patient Sufferer
1. What figure did Isaiah use in
describing Christ as the patient Suf-
ferer? Isa. 53:7-
NOTE.
-"The
priests and rulers, in great
anxiety, urged their accusations against
Him. Raising their voices, they declared,
He is a traitor, a blasphemer. . . .
"He [Herod] now threatened Jesus, de-
claring repeatedly that he had power to
( 23 I
release or to condemn Him. But no sign
from Jesus gave evidence that He heard a
word."—The Desire of Ages,
page 730.
"Christ's very nobility and godlike bear-
ing goaded them to madness. His meek-
ness, His innocence, His majestic pa-
tience, filled them with hatred born of
Satan."—Ibid., p. 710.
2.
With what words did Jesus con-
sole His disciples concerning their
future trials? John 16:33.
NOTE
—"The trials to which Christians
are subjected in sorrow, adversity, and
reproach are the means appointed of God
to separate the chaff from the wheat."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 3, p. 115.
"The trials hardest to bear are those that
come from our brethren, our own familiar
friends; but even these trials may be borne
with patience."—Ibid., Vol. 8, p. 128.
3.
How are we encouraged to fol-
low the example of Jesus in patience?
Rom. 15:5; Col. 1:10, 11.
NOTE.—The marginal reading of "accord-
ing to Christ Jesus" is "after the example
of."
4.
In what spirit did Paul wish
his counsels to be expressed and un-
derstood? 2 Cor. 10:1.
NOTE.—
"
God has a purpose in sending
trial to His children. He never leads them
otherwise than they would choose to he
led if they could see the end from the
beginning, and discern the glory of the
purpose that they are
fulfilling."—Prophets
and Kings,
page 578.
6.
What experience developed pa-
tience and forbearance in Moses?
Heb. 11:24-27.
NOTE.—"It was the experience gained
during the years of toil and waiting in
Midian—the spirit of humility and long-
suffering there developed—that prepared
Moses to meet with patience the unbelief
and murmuring of the people and the pride
and envy of those who should have been
his unswerving
helpers."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 384.
7.
What was David's testimony in
the face of deep trial? Ps. 40:1-3.
Whom did he call blessed? Ps. 94:12.
8.
Rather than complain to the Lord
in his affliction, what did Job say he
would do? Job 40:3, 4.
NOTE.—"By his patient endurance he
vindicated his own character, and thus
the character of Him whose representative
he
was."—Education,
page 156.
The Practice of Patience
NOTE.—"Paul's patience and cheerfulness
during his long and unjust imprisonment,
his courage and faith, were a continual
sermon. His spirit, so unlike the spirit
of the world, bore witness that a power
higher than that of earth was abiding with
Him."—The Acts of the Apostles,
page
464.
The School of Discipline
5. How has God designed that we
should develop patience? Heb. 12:
5-7; Rom. 5:3.
9. How may patience become an
active virtue? 1 Thess. 5:14, 15.
NoTa.---"Patience as well as courage has
its victories. By meekness under trial, no
less than by boldness in enterprise, souls
may be won to Christ. The Christian who
manifests patience and cheerfulness under
bereavement and suffering, who meets even
death itself with the peace and calmness of
an unwavering faith, may accomplish for
24
the gospel more than he could have effected
by a long life of faithful labor."—The
Acts
of the Apostles,
page 465.
10.
What admonition to Timothy
is applicable to every Christian?
2 Tim. 2:24, 25.
NOTE.—"Those who arc walking in the
light can afford to be calm, gentle with
the erring, 'apt to teach,' making manifest
the fact that they have asked and received
wisdom of
God."—Testimonies to Minis-
ters,
pages 164, 165.
11.
How will patience sanctify our
speech and our influence? Titus 3:2;
Prov. 15:1.
NOTE.—"Do all that lies in your power,
without the sacrifice of principle, to con-
ciliate others. . . .
"If impatient words are spoken to you,
never reply in the same spirit. . . . Anger
met with silence, in a tender, forbearing
spirit, quickly dies away."—The
Ministry
of Healing,
page 486.
•
12.
What attitude of mind will
result in patient forbearance among
brethren? Rom. 12:16; Col. 3:13.
NOTE.—"Do not let anything interpose
between you and your brethren. If there
is anything that you can do by sacrifice
to clear away the rubbish of suspicion, do
it. God wants us to love one another as
brethren. He wants us to be pitiful and
courteous. He wants us to educate our-
selves to believe that our brethren love us,
and to believe that Christ loves
us."—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 9, p. 193.
The Hope of the Church
13.
How can harmony in the
church be preserved? Eph. 4:2, 3;
2 Thess. 3:5.
NOTE.—"Christ designs that heaven's or-
der, heaven's plan of government, heaven's
divine harmony, shall be represented in
His church on earth."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 680.
"The apostle exhorts his brethren to
manifest in their lives the power of the
truth which he had presented to them. By
meekness and gentleness, forbearance and
love, they were to exemplify the character
of
Christ."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 239.
14.
In view of the soon coming of
the Saviour, of what are we re-
minded? Heb. 10:35-37; James 5:7, 8.
NOTE.—"Let the afflictions which pain us
so grievously become instructive lessons,
teaching us to press forward toward the
mark of the prize of our high calling in
Christ. Let us be encouraged by the
thought that the Lord is soon to come.
Let this hope gladden our hearts. . . .
"It will not be long till we shall see
Him in whom our hopes of eternal life
are centered. And in His presence, all the
trials and sufferings of this life will be as
nothingness."—Testimonies, Vol. 9, p. 287.
Lesson
8, for May 21, 1966
Meekness and Humility
MEMORY VERSE:
"Be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for
God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble." 1 Peter 5:5.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Desire of Ages," pages 432-442, 642-651; "Prophets and
Kings,"
pages 25-32; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
25
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson,
following the outline.
❑
Sunday: Read Introduction;
Ques. 1-3.
❑
Monday: Ques. 4-7; read first
study help.
❑
Tuesday: Ques. 8-10; read
Check Here
second study help.
0
Wednesday: Ques. 11-14.
0
Thursday: Review Ques.
1
-
7;
learn memory verse.
Friday: Review Ques. 8-14;
meditate on Key Thought.
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Divine Example
1.
The humility of Jesus.
Phil. 2:6-8; Heb. 5:8.
2.
Pride of the Pharisees in contrast.
Matt. 9:10-12.
3.
Jesus sets an example for His
disciples. John 13:4, 5, 15.
II. The Master's Teachings
4.
Who is greatest in the kingdom of
heaven? Matt. 18:2-4.
5.
Jesus rebukes vainglory of the
Pharisees. Matt. 23:5-7.
6.
Mark of Christian brotherhood.
Matt. 23:8-12.
7.
The parable of choosing places of
honor. Luke 14:7-11.
III. Old Testament Object Lessons
8. God's mercy to King Ahab.
1 Kings 21:27-29.
9.
Solomon's humble prayer for
wisdom rewarded. 1 Kings 3:5-14.
10.
Josiah's humility averts punish-
ment. 2 Chron. 34:26-28.
IV. New Testament Admonitions
11.
Secret of Paul's success as a laborer
for God. Phil. 4:12, first part;
1 Cor. 9:19-23.
12.
Paul's exhortation to humility
and unity. Phil. 2:3, 4.
13.
Peter's exhortation to the church.
1 Peter 5:5, 6.
14.
James points the way of favor
with God. James 4:6, 10.
Key Thought:
"The strength of the children of God
is in their humility. When they are little
in their own eyes, Jesus will be to them
their strength and their righteousness, and
God will prosper their
labors."-Testi-
monies,
Vol. 3, p. 307.
THE LESSON
Introduction
Self-sufficiency gives rise to vanity and
pride that frequently results in an offen-
sive self-praise. How to be aggressive in
the work of God without rudely clamoring
for the adoption of our own ideas and
belittling other men's plans requires fre-
quent contemplation of the humble spirit
of the Master Workman as He went about
doing good. He was never elated by ap-
plause nor dejected by censure. His self-
abasement was not a passive meekness
that let men beguile Him into compromise
with evil, but an active humility that ex-
alted the dignity of His character. His
example and that of His witnesses in all
ages afford a pattern for our study in
this lesson.
The Divine Example
1. How is the humility of Christ
described? Phil. 2:6-8; Heb. 5:8.
[26]
NOTE.—"It was the marvel of all the
universe that Christ should humble Him-
self to save fallen man. That He who
had passed from star to star, from world
to world, superintending all, by His provi-
dence supplying the needs of every order
of being in His vast creation—that He
should consent to leave His glory and take
upon Himself human nature, was a mys-
tery which the sinless intelligences of other
worlds desired to
understand."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 69.
"It would have been an almost infinite
humiliation for the Son of God to take
man's nature, even when Adam stood in
his innocence in Eden. But Jesus accepted
humanity when the race had been weak-
ened by four thousand years of sin."—
The Desire of Ages,
page 49.
2.
How did the pride of the Phar-
isees contrast with the meekness of
Jesus? Matt. 9:10-12.
NOTE.—"Jesus sat as an honored guest
at the table of the publicans, by His sym-
pathy and social kindliness showing that
He recognized the dignity of humanity."—
The Desire of Ages,
page 274.
"But although the Pharisees thought so
highly of themselves, they were really in
a worse condition than the ones they de-
spised. The publicans were less bigoted
and self-sufficient, and thus were more
open to the influence of truth."—Ibid.,
p. 275.
3.
What example of humble service
rebuked the ambition for eminence
among the disciples? John 13:4, 5, 15.
NOTE.—"There was 'a strife among them,
which of them should be accounted the
greatest.' . . . In heart each still longed for
the highest place in the kingdom."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 643.
"Judas, in choosing his position at table,
had tried to place himself first, and Christ
as a servant served him
first."—Ibid.,
page
645.
"Christ would have His disciples under-
stand that although He had washed their
feet, this did not in the least detract from
His dignity. . . . No one was so exalted as
Christ, and yet He stooped to the humblest
duty."—Ibid.,
p. 649.
The Master's Teachings
4.
Who did the Saviour say should
be greatest in the kingdom of heaven?
Matt. 18:2-4.
NOTE.—"Christ will not undertake to
teach the self-righteous, self-conceited, and
self-willed.
. . It is only the meek that
He will guide in judgment; the meek will
He teach His
way."—Testimonies,
Vol.
3,
p. 449.
5.
How did Jesus describe the vain-
glory of the Pharisees? Matt. 23:5-7.
NOTE.—"In such plain words the Saviour
revealed the selfish ambition that was ever
reaching for place and power, displaying
a mock humility, while the heart was filled
with avarice and
envy."—The Desire of
Ages,
page 613.
6.
What attitude of mind and prin-
ciple of conduct will mark true Chris-
tian brotherhood? Matt. 23:8-12.
NOTE.—"Among the peculiarities which
should distinguish God's people from the
world in these last days, is their humility
and meekness. . . . Instead of being am-
bitious to be equal to another in honor
and position, or perhaps even higher, we
should seek to be the humble, faithful
servants of
Christ."—Testimonies,
Vol. 4,
p. 226.
7.
In what parable did Jesus illus-
trate the wisdom of humility? Luke
14:7-11.
Old Testament Object Lessons
8.
Why did God defer punishment
on the house of Ahab? 1 Kings 21:
27-29.
I 27 )
NOTE.—
"
Jacob's
statement is not
evi-
dence, as some commentators suggest, that
Jacob conceived of God as appearing only
at certain consecrated places. . . . It is,
rather, an expression of his surprise and
joy upon finding that whereas he had
imagined himself alone, he was in reality
in the very company of God."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Gen. 28:16.
9.
Of what did Paul remind the
Athenians in his address on Mars'
Hill? Acts 17:24-27.
NOTE.—"Although God dwells not in
temples made with hands, yet He honors
with His presence the assemblies of His
people. He has promised that when they
come together to seek Him, to acknowl-
edge their sins, and to pray for one an-
other, He will meet with them by His
Spirit."—Prophets and Kings,
page 50.
10.
How did God reward the de-
votion of Paul and Silas in the
Philippian prison? Acts 16:25, 26.
NOTE.—"Christ was beside them there,
and the light of His presence irradiated
the gloom with the glory of the courts
above."—Thoughts 'From the Mount of
Blessing,
page 35.
11.
Confronted with the decree to
cease praying to God, what did Dan-
iel do? Dan. 6:10.
NOTE.—"Daniel's history is a remarkable
one. . . . He was condemned to death
because he would not abate one jot of
his allegiance to God even in the face of
the king's decree. It might, at this day, be
called overrighteousness to go, as was his
wont, three times a day and kneel before
the open window for prayer while he knew
that prying eyes were observing him ; . .
but Daniel would allow no earthly power
to come in between him and his God."—
Testimonies,
Vol.
5,
p.
527.
Worship Approved of Heaven
12.
What is the basis of wisdom
and understanding? Prov. 9:10.
NOTE.—"It is a law of the mind that it
gradually adapts itself to the subjects upon
which it is trained to dwell. If occupied
with commonplace matters only, it will
become dwarfed and enfeebled. . . . In the
reverent contemplation of the truths pre-
sented in His Word the mind of the
student is brought into communion with
the infinite
mind."—Patriarchs and Proph-
ets,
page 596.
13.
What instruction is given re-
specting conduct in the sanctuary?
Hab. 2:20; Eccl. 5:1; Ps. 95:6.
NOTE.—"True reverence for God is in-
spired by a sense of His infinite greatness
and a realization of His presence. . . . The
hour and place of prayer and the services
of public worship the child should be
taught to regard as sacred because God
is
there."—Education,
pages 242, 243.
14.
What exercises are acceptable
to God as expressions of worship?
Ps. 100:4; Col. 3:16; 1 Chron. 16:29.
NOTE.—"When consecrated believers as-
semble, their conversation will not be upon
the imperfections of others or savor of
murmuring or complaint; charity, or love,
the bond of perfectness, will encircle them."
—Testimonies,
Vol. 1, p. 509.
"The freewill offerings of the humble,
contrite heart He will receive . . . as the
sacrifice of grateful obedience."—Ibid., Vol.
2, p. 653.
15.
What counsel to the Hebrews
has particular application to the
church today? Heb. 10:25; 12:28.
NOTE.—"Never entertain the thought
that you can be Christians and yet with-
draw within yourselves. Each one is a
31
Diligence Commended
13.
What characteristic leads to ad-
vancement, even in the world's work?
Prov. 22:29.
14.
In view of the brevity of life,
how should each day's tasks be per-
formed? Eccl. 9:10; 12:14.
NOTE.
—
"We
are to look upon every duty,
however humble, as sacred because it is a
part of God's service. Our daily prayer
should be, 'Lord, help me to do my best.
Teach me how to do better work. Give
me energy and cheerfulness. Help me to
bring into my service the loving ministry
of the Saviour.'
"—The Ministry of Heal-
ing,
page 474.
Lesson 11, for June 11, 1966
Kindness and Sympathy
MEMORY VERSE:
"And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to
them likewise." Luke 6:31.
•
STUDY HELPS:
"Christ's Object Lessons," pages 376-389, 243-251; "Testimonies,"
Vol. 3, pp. 527-534; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: Read Intro-
Tuesday: Ques. 7, 8.
❑
duction; survey lesson,
Wednesday: Ques. 9-11;
following the outline.
❑
learn memory verse.
Sunday: Ques. 1-3; read first
Thursday: Ques. 12, 13;
study help.
❑
meditate on Key Thought.
0
Monday: Ques. 4-6; read
Friday: Review entire lesson.
second study help.
❑
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. God's Loving-Kindness
1.
God's kindness and His covenant.
Isa. 54:6-10.
2.
Appeal of His great loving-kind-
ness. Joel 2:12, 13.
3.
Regenerating power of God's love.
Titus 3:3-6.
II. The Saviour's Compassion
4. Jesus commends quality of God's
mercy to His followers. Luke 6:
35, 36.
5. The active compassion of Jesus—
a.
To the multitudes. Matt. 14:
14-16.
b.
Toward children. Matt. 19:14.
c.
Toward His enemies. Luke 22:
50, 51.
6. Mutual helpfulness a Christian
duty. Matt. 22:39; Luke 10:27, 28.
III. Old and New Testament Examples
7. Love of David and Jonathan.
1 Sam. 19:1-6.
8. Paul's plea for Onesimus.
Philemon 10, 16, 17.
[ 36 ]
The Saviour's Compassion
4.
What standard of mercy did
Jesus commend to His followers?
Luke 6:35, 36.
NOTE.—"Taking humanity upon Him,
Christ came to be one with humanity and
at the same time to reveal our heavenly
Father to sinful human beings. . . .
"Tender, compassionate, sympathetic,
ever considerate of others, He represented
the character of God, and was constantly
engaged in service for God and man."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 8, p. 286.
5.
How was the compassion of Jesus
demonstrated (a) to the needy multi-
tudes? Matt. 14:14-16;
(b)
toward
children? Matt. 19:14;
(c)
toward
His enemies? Luke
22:50, 51.
NoTE.—"The people pressed into Christ's
presence with urgent, pitiful appeals:
Master, bless me. His ear heard every cry.
With pity exceeding that of a tender
mother He bent over the suffering little
ones. All received attention. Everyone
was healed of whatever disease he had.
The dumb opened their lips in praise; the
blind beheld the face of their Restorer.
The hearts of the sufferers were made
glad."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 163.
6.
What commandment of the Sav-
iour makes mutual helpfulness a
Christian duty? Matt. 22:39; Luke
10:27, 28.
NozE.—"The question arises: 'Who is my
neighbor?' His reply is the parable of the
Good Samaritan, which teaches us that
any human being who needs our sympathy
and our kind offices is our neighbor."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 226.
"If our hearts are softened and subdued
by the grace of Christ, and glowing with
a sense of God's goodness and love, there
will be a natural outflow of love, sympathy,
and tenderness to others."—Ibid., Vol. 5,
p. 606.
Old and New Testament Examples
7.
In pleading for the life of David,
his rival to the throne, how did
Jonathan show his gracious spirit?
1 Sam. 19:1-6.
NoTE.—"Jonathan, by birth heir to the
throne, yet knowing himself set aside by
the divine decree; to his rival the most
tender and faithful of friends, shielding
David's life at the peril of his own— . . .
the name of Jonathan is treasured
in
heaven, and it stands on earth a witness
to the existence and the power of unselfish
love."—Education,
page 157.
8.
What does Paul's plea for Ones-
imus show regarding the relationship
between masters and servants? Phi-
lemon 10, 16, 17.
NOTE.—"With his usual tact and kind-
ness, the apostle pleaded the cause of the
repentant slave." "Christianity makes a
strong bond of union between master and
slave, king and subject, the gospel minis-
ter and the degraded sinner who has
found in Christ cleansing from
sin."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages 456, 460. See
The Ministry of Healing,
page 489.
Exhortations to Brotherly Kindness
9.
To the exercise of what gracious
virtues are the elect of God admon-
ished? Col.
3:12, 13.
NoTE.—"Let each ask himself: Do I
possess the grace of love? Have I learned
to suffer long and to be kind? Talents,
learning, and eloquence, without this
heavenly attribute, will be as meaningless
as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal.
Alas that this precious treasure is so
lightly valued and so little sought by many
who profess the
faith!"—Testimonies,
Vol.
5,
p. 169.
[ 87
10.
What principles of Christian
fellowship did Paul commend to the
early church? Rom. 12:10; Eph. 4:32.
NOTE.—"The cultivation of a uniform
courtesy, a willingness to do to others as
we would wish them to do to us, would
annihilate half the ills of
life."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 133.
11.
By what steps does one reach
the flowering of character in brotherly
kindness and charity? 2 Peter 1:5-7.
NoTE.—"Christ, who connects earth with
heaven, is the ladder. The base is planted
firmly on the earth in His humanity ; the
topmost round reaches to the throne of
God in His divinity. . . . We are saved
by climbing round after round of the lad-
der, looking to Christ, clinging to Christ,
mounting step by step to tie height of
Christ."—Testimonies,
Vol. 6, p. 147.
12.
What will control and season
the tongue of the true Christian?
Prov. 31:26.
NOTE.—"A word of cheer, an act of
kindness, would go far to lighten the bur-
dens that are resting heavily upon weary
shoulders. . . .
"Let the law of kindness be ever on
your lips. Forbearance and unselfishness
mark the words and actions of those who
arc born again, to live the new life in
Christ."—Testimonies,
Vol. 7, p. 50.
13.
What principle of conduct sums
up our Christian relationship to
others? Matt. 7:12.
NOTE.—"Thy brother, sick in spirit,
needs thee, as thou thyself hast needed
a brother's love. He needs the experience
of one who has been as weak as he, one
who can sympathize with him and help
him. The knowledge of our own weak-
ness should help us to help another in his
bitter need. Never should we pass by one
suffering soul without seeking to impart
to him the comfort wherewith we are
comforted of
God."—Christ's Object Les-
sons,
pages 387, 388.
Lesson 12, for June 18, 1966
Justice and Equity
MEMORY VERSE: "He hath showed thee, 0 man, what is good; and what doth
the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk
humbly with thy God?" Micah 6:8.
STUDY HELPS: "Testimonies," Vol. 4, pp. 309-312, 489-495; "Thoughts From
the Mount of Blessing," pages 134-137 (1943 ed., pp. 192-197); "S.D.A. Bible
Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson,
second study help.
0
following the outline.
Wednesday: Ques. 10-15.
0
Sunday: Read Introduction;
Thursday: Review Ques. 1-9;
Ques. 1-4.
learn memory verse.
Monday: Ques. 5, 6; read first
Friday: Review Ques. 10-15;
study help.
❑
meditate on Key Thought.
0
Tuesday: Ques. 7-9; read
[ 38 ]
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Standard of Equity in Israel
1.
Israel's inheritance based on justice.
Deut. 16:20.
2.
Instructions in equity and justice.
Lev. 19:13, 15, 18.
II. God's Hatred of Double-Dealing
3.
Those who led Israel astray.
Num. 11:4.
4.
Lessons from Israel's failure.
Ex. 23:2, first part; Ps. 1:1.
5.
Achan's sin and punishment.
Joshua 7:20-25.
6.
Retribution on Ananias and
Sapphira. Acts 5:1-10.
III. God Frowns on Inequity
7. How the Lord views dishonesty.
Prov. 11:1; 20:10.
8.
Jeremiah's cry against injustice.
Jer. 22:13.
9.
Fraud a sign of the last days.
James 5:1-6.
IV. Principles to Live By
10.
Description of a just man.
Ezek. 18:5, 7-9.
11.
A guiding principle for fair dealing.
Prov. 3:27.
12.
The pronouncement of Jesus.
Matt. 5:39-41.
13.
Paul's teaching on equity.
Rom. 12:17; 13:7, 8.
14.
Mutual sharing among brethren.
2 Cor. 8:13-15.
15.
God's standard of integrity.
Micah 6:8.
Key Thought:
"Firm integrity shines forth as gold
amid the dross and rubbish of the world."
-Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 310.
THE LESSON
Introduction
Honesty and fair dealing are among
the princely virtues of Christian living.
Shortcuts to gain and material advantage
are often snares to even well-intentioned
people. The neighbor's landmark, the just
weight, and fairness in every deal are as
inviolable in God's sight as they were in
the Mosaic economy. There is no sight
dearer to heaven than a Christian who
rules his household with equity, covers
his neighbor's faults with charity, and
tempers his justice with mercy.
The Standard of Equity in Israel
1. Upon the observance of what
principle was the inheritance of
Israel assured? Deut. 16:20.
NOTE.
-"If
the Israelites would be true
to their trust, they would become a power
in the world. God would be their defense,
and He would exalt them above all other
nations."-Patriarchs and Prophets,
page
314.
"It was God's purpose that by the revela-
tion of His character through Israel men
should be drawn unto
Him."-Prophets
and Kings,
page 19.
2.
What were some of the instruc-
tions intended to keep the children of
Israel a people of justice and equity?
Lev. 19:13, 15, 18.
NOTE.
-"Religion
does not consist merely
in a system of dry doctrines, but in prac-
tical faith, which sanctifies the life and
corrects the conduct in the family circle
and in the church. . . . God requires un-
deviating principle in the minutest details
of the transactions of
life."-Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 337.
God's Hatred of Double-Dealing
3.
Who were the first to murmur
in the wilderness and to lead Israel
into apostasy? Num. 11:4.
[ 39 ]
NOTE.—"The mixed multitude that
came up with the Israelites from Egypt
were a source of continual temptation and
trouble. . . . They were oftenest the ones
to stir up strife and were the first to
complain, and they leavened the camp with
their idolatrous practices and their mur-
murings against
God."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 408.
4.
What lesson may we learn from
Israel's failures? Ex. 23:2, first part;
Ps. 1:1.
NoTE.—"If choice is made of compan-
ions who fear the Lord, the influence will
lead to truth, to duty, and to holiness. . . .
To walk in the counsel of the ungodly is
the first step toward standing in the way
of sinners and sitting in the seat of the
scornful."—Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 587.
5.
What was Achan's sin, and how
was he punished? Joshua 7:20-25.
NOTE.—"The deadly sin that led to
Achan's ruin had its root in covetousness,
of all sins one of the most common and
the most lightly regarded. While other
offenses meet with detection and punish-
ment, how rarely does the violation of the
tenth commandment so much as call forth
censure. . .
"For a goodly Babylonish garment, mul-
titudes sacrifice the approval of conscience
and their hope of heaven. Multitudes bar-
ter their integrity, and their capabilities
for usefulness, for a bag of silver shekels."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 496, 497.
6.
What swift retribution came
upon Ananias and Sapphira? Acts
5:1-10.
NOTE.—"God hates hypocrisy and false-
hood. Ananias and Sapphira practiced
fraud in their dealing with God; they lied
to the Holy Spirit, and their sin was visited
with swift and terrible judgment... .
"This judgment testified that men can-
not deceive God, that He detects the hidden
sin of the heart, and that He will not be
mocked."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages
72, 73.
God Frowns on Inequity
7.
How does the Lord look upon
dishonesty? Prov. 11:1; 20:10.
NOTE.—"The children of God should not
fail to remember that in all their business
transactions they are being proved, weighed
in the balances of the sanctuary. . . .
"All that is obtained by deceit and fraud
will be only a curse to the receiver."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 311.
8.
What message did the Lord give
Jeremiah against injustice and op-
pression? Jer. 22:13.
NOTE.—"God's Word sanctions no policy
that will enrich one class by the oppression
and suffering of another. In all our busi-
ness transactions it teaches us to put our-
selves in the place of those with whom we
are dealing, to look not only on our own
things, but also on the things of others."—
The Ministry of Healing,
page 187.
9.
What is described as a particular
evil of the last days? James 5:1-6.
NOTE.—"Belief in the near coming of
the Son of man in the clouds of heaven will
not cause the true Christian to become
neglectful and careless of the ordinary
business of life. The waiting ones who look
for the soon appearing of Christ will not
be idle, but diligent in business. Their
work will not be done carelessly and dis-
honestly, but with fidelity, promptness,
and thoroughness."—Testimonies, Vol. 4,
p. 309.
Principles to Live
By
10.
What part do fair and honest
dealings have in God's description of
a just man? Ezek. 18:5, 7-9.
E 40 ]
NOTE.—"A man who is honest before
God will deal justly with his fellowmen,
whether or not it is for his own personal
interest to do so. The outward acts are a
fair transcript of the principles within."—
Life Sketches,
page 244.
11.
What words of Solomon set
forth a guiding principle in our deal-
ings with others? Prov. 3:27.
NOTE.—"God has bound us together as
members of one family, and this relation-
ship everyone is bound to cherish. There
are services due to others which we cannot
ignore and yet keep the commandments of
God. To live, think, and act for self only
is to become useless as servants of God.
High-sounding titles and great talents are
not essential in order to be good citizens
or exemplary Christians."—Testimonies,
Vol. 4, pp. 339, 340.
12.
How did Jesus show that the
Christian is obligated to a higher
law than mere duty? Matt. 5:39-41.
NOTE.—"In the days of Christ these
merciful provisions were little regarded;
but Jesus taught His disciples to submit
to the decision of the court, even though
this should demand more than the law of
Moses authorized."—Thoughts
From the
Mount of Blessing,
page 72.
13.
What was Paul's teaching on
equity? Rom. 12:17; 13:7, 8.
NOTE.—"It is the devising of men that
leads to injustice and oppression. The
cause of God is free from every taint of
injustice. It seeks to gain no advantage
by depriving the members of His family
of their individuality or of their rights.
The Lord does not sanction arbitrary au-
thority, nor will He serve with the least
selfishness or overreaching. To Him all
such practices are abhorrent."—Testimo-
nies, Vol. 7, p. 179.
14.
How are brethren counseled to
share with one another the blessings
of varying abundance? 2 Cor. 8:13-
15. See James 2:15, 16.
NoTE.—"Study to be rich in good works,
ready to distribute, willing to communicate,
laying up for yourselves a good foundation
against the time to come, that you may
lay hold on everlasting
life."—Testimonies,
Vol. 1, p. 706.
15.
How does Micah sum up God's
standard of integrity? Micah 6:8.
NOTE.—"The end is near, and every soul
is now to walk carefully, humbly, meekly
with Christ Jesus. Our precious Saviour,
from whom all the rays of truth radiate
to the world, wants us to put not our trust
in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom
there is no help; but to lean wholly upon
Him."—Testimonies,
Vol. 9, p. 203.
Lesson 13, for June 25, 1966
Zeal and Soul Saving
MEMORY VERSE:
"Whosoever shall confess Me before men, him shall the Son of
man also confess before the angels of God." Luke 12:8.
STUDY HELPS:
"Testimonies," Vol. 9, pp. 19-29, 43-48, 109-124; "S.D.A. Bible
Commentary."
[ 41 J
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson,
study help, pp. 43-48.
0
following the outline.
❑
Wednesday: Ques. 12-14; read
Sunday: Read Introduction;
study help, pp. 109-124.
Ques. 1-4.
❑
Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8;
Monday: Ques. 5-8; read
learn memory verse.
0
study help, pp. 19-29.
0
Friday: Review Ques. 9-14;
Tuesday: Ques. 9-11; read
meditate on Key Thought.
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Gospel Commission
1.
The gospel commission. Matt. 28:
19, 20; Mark 16:15; 13:10.
2.
The disciples follow the Lord's
command. Mark 16:20.
3.
Need of zealous endeavor.
John 4:35.
4.
Work at the eleventh hour.
Matt. 20:6, 7.
II. Great Movements Under God
5.
The spirit of Nehemiah.
Neh. 4:6, 17, 18.
6.
Jonah's message and its results.
Jonah 3:5-10.
7.
The revival in Samaria.
John 4:39-41.
8.
Paul's evangelistic efforts in
Ephesus. Acts 19:17-20.
III. God's Witnesses Today
9.
The burden of our testimony.
Isa. 43:10; Luke 12:8.
10.
The boldness of Peter and John.
Acts 4:13.
11.
Paul's counsel to Timothy.
2 Tim. 1:8.
IV. The Needful Preparation
12.
Paul's varied experiences as a
worker. 2 Cor. 6:4-10.
13.
What Peter urges as needful
preparation. 1 Peter 3:15.
14.
The special message for today.
Rev. 14:6.
Key Thought:
"The inhabitants of the heavenly uni-
verse expect the followers of Christ to
shine as lights in the
world."-Testimonies,
Vol. 9, p. 22.
THE LESSON
Introduction
Zeal and religious activity are often
substituted for an essential knowledge of
God. To be effective as a soul-saving
virtue, religious enthusiasm must be molded
by heavenly wisdom and sanctified common
sense. There are few weapons more des-
tructive in Satan's hands than a zeal "not
according to knowledge." In it are found
the roots of fanaticism. On the other hand,
there is danger of drawing back from ag-
gressive service for God because of spirit-
ual indolence or false modesty. "We are
to be consecrated channels, through which
the heavenly life is to flow to others."-
-Testimonies,
Vol. 9, p. 20.
The Gospel Commission
1. What was Christ's last great
commission to His disciples? Matt.
28:19, 20; Mark 16:15; 13:10.
NorE.-Note the various means of evan-
gelism to be employed-preaching, teaching,
publishing. "It is His purpose that divine
and human instrumentalities shall unite in
the proclamation of the warning message."
-Testimonies,
Vol. 9, p. 19.
[ 42 ]
2.
How zealously did the disciples
follow the Lord's command? Mark
16:20.
NoTE.—"These disciples prepared them-
selves for their work. Before the Day of
Pentecost they met together, and put away
all differences. . . . They did not ask for
a
blessing for themselves merely; they
were weighted with the burden for the
salvation of souls. The gospel was to be
carried to the uttermost parts of the earth,
and they claimed the endowment of power
that Christ had promised."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 827.
3.
How did Jesus impress upon His
followers the need of zealous en-
deavor? John 4:35.
NOTE.—"Let not the fields lying in the
shadow of our doors, such as the great
cities in our land, be lightly passed over
and neglected. . . .
"The destruction of these cities, almost
wholly given up to idolatry, is impending."
—Testimonies,
Vol. 8, pp. 31, 32.
4.
In the parable of the house-
holder, what were the eleventh-hour
idlers bidden to do? Matt. 20:6, 7.
NOTE.—"Long has God waited for the
spirit of service to take possession of the
whole church so that everyone shall be
working for Him according to his ability."
—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 111.
•
"There must be an awakening, a spiritual
renovation. The temperature of Christian
piety must be raised. . . .
"There is work for every individual who
names the name of Christ. A voice from
heaven is solemnly calling you to duty.
Heed this voice, and go to work at once in
any place, in any
capacity."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5, pp. 203, 204.
Great Movements Under God
5.
With what resolute spirit were
the walls of Jerusalem built? Neh.
4:6, 17, 18.
NOTE.—"Notwithstanding the plots of
enemies, open and secret, the work of
building went steadily forward, and in less
than two months from the time of Nehe-
miah's arrival in Jerusalem the city was
girded with its defenses and the builders
could walk upon the walls and look down
upon their defeated and astonished foes."—
Prophets and Kings,
page 657.
"Especially today, while earth's history
is closing, the Lord requires of His children
a vigilance that knows no relaxation."—
Ibid.,
p. 571.
6.
What was the result of Jonah's
God-given message to Nineveh?
Jonah 3:5-10.
NoTE.—"The message was not in vain.
The cry that rang through the streets of the
godless city was passed from lip to lip
until all the inhabitants had heard the
startling announcement. The Spirit of God
pressed the message home to every heart
and caused multitudes to tremble because
of their sins and to repent in deep humili-
ation."—Prophets
and Kings,
page 270.
"In every city, filled though it may be
with violence and crime, there are many
who with proper teaching may learn to
become followers of Jesus."—Ibid., p. 277.
7.
How was the message of the
Samaritan woman received after her
conversion at Jacob's well? John 4:
39-41.
NOTE.—"As soon as she had found the
Saviour the Samaritan woman brought
others to Him. She proved herself a more
effective missionary than His own disciples.
The disciples saw nothing in Samaria
to
indicate that it was an encouraging field.
. . . But through the woman whom they
despised, a whole cityful were brought to
hear the Saviour."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 195.
8.
How is the great revival under
Paul's preaching at Ephesus de-
scribed? Acts 19:17-20.
93
NOTE.—"By burning their books on
magic, the Ephesian converts showed that
the things in which they had once de-
lighted they now abhorred. . . . Thus they
gave evidence of true conversion."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 288.
"The Lord has in our large cities many
precious souls who have not bowed the
knee to Baal, and He has those who have
worshiped Baal ignorantly. On these the
light of truth is to shine, that they may
see Christ as the way, the truth, and the
life."—Testimonies,
Vol. 9, p. 142.
God's Witnesses Today
9.
As witnesses for God, what
should we make the burden of our
confession? Isa. 43:10; Luke 12:8.
NOTE.—"We are witnesses for God as
we reveal in ourselves the working of a
power that is divine. Every individual has
a life distinct from all others, and an
experience differing essentially from theirs.
God desires that our praise shall ascend
to Him, marked with our own individu-
ality."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 100.
10.
If we would have the boldness
of Peter and John, what must be
revealed in our testimony? Acts 4:13.
NOTE.—"No longer were they ignorant
and uncultured. . . . No longer were their
hopes set on worldly greatness. They were
of 'one accord,' of one mind and one soul.
Christ filled their thoughts. The advance-
ment of His kingdom was their aim."—
Education,
page 95.
11.
What admonition to Timothy
is good counsel for God's last-day
witnesses? 2 Timothy 1:8.
The Needful Preparation
12.
What rich and varied experi-
ence gave Paul his power as a worker
for God? 2 Cor. 6:4-10.
13.
What did Peter urge as needful
preparation for winning souls? 1 Pe-
ter 3:15.
NOTE.—"Many who profess to believe
the truth for these last days . . . do not
know why they believe the truth. . . .
They can give no intelligent reason why
they believe. Many have allowed their
minds to be filled with things of minor
importance, and their eternal interest is
made secondary."—Testinionies, Vol. 2,
p. 634.
14.
How is the special message for
today described, and how widely
must it be proclaimed? Rev. 14:6.
NOTE.—"The message of Revelation 14
is the message that we are to bear to the
world. It is the bread of life for these last
days. . .
"We are not to cease our efforts or relax
our vigilance. Never is our zeal to grow
less. Our spiritual life must be daily re-
vived by the stream that makes glad the
city of our
God."—Testimonies,
Vol. 8,
p. 27.
"The Bible is our rule of
faith and doctrine. There is
nothing more calculated
to energize the mind and
strengthen the intellect than
the study of the Word of
God. No other book is so po-
tent to elevate the thoughts
or give vigor to the facul-
ties, as the broad, ennobling
truths of the
Bible."—Gos-
pel Workers,
page 249.
L44
]
vOl.”1
-
1 I 1-
HELPS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
in the study of the
Sabbath School Lessons
-ORDER :THROUGH 'YOUR CEURIPH MISSION
-
2RY SRi4TAITY
:2.
rEt4CDEEDffeE
111MTIJACE
146O
PRIffifIllY THEME
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Miscellaneous
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Pacific Press Publishing Association, Mountain View, California
46
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING
June 25, 1966
Middle East Division
The overflow of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering for the second quarter
of 1966 has been assigned by the General Conference for the expansion of
God's work in Bible lands. Sixteen Eastern nations, on three continents,
representing five language groups, Arabic being the main one, make up
the territories of the Middle East Division. The future of the church and
the development of God's work in the Bible lands is dependent on Christian
education. The training of our youth and the preparation of laborers for
the Lord's harvest field is the most urgent and necessary work to accomplish
at this time.
Through the blessings of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering, the elementary
school in Iran, presently housed in rented quarters with meager facilities,
will occupy its new home. The academy, with the advantage of recent
recognition and accreditation, will be enlarged. This will provide more
space in the dormitory, additional classrooms, and larger provisions for
the dining room. This little "school of the prophets," located at the foot
of the great snow-covered mountains, will hold high the standards of
Christian education, and will mold our youth to be pillars in the church of
God.
Lessons for the Second Quarter, 1966
Sabbath School members who have failed to receive a senior
Lesson Quarterly
for the third quarter of 1966 will be helped by the following outline in studying
the first lesson. The title of the series is "The People of Promise." The title of
the first lesson is "God's Purpose for This Earth." The memory verse is Psalm
100:3. The study helps are
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 44-51, 63-70 (chapters
2 and 4) ;
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
and
S.D.A. Bible Dictionary.
The texts to
be studied are:
Ques. 1. Isa. 45:18.
Ques. 2. Ps. 8:6-8; 115:16.
Ques. 3. Isa. 43:7; Acts 17:24-27.
Ques. 4. Rom. 3:9-12, 23.
Ques. 5. John 3:16; Cal. 1:27.
Ques. 6. Col. 1:19, 20.
Ques. 7. Rev. 22:17.
Ques. 8. Rom. 5:8-10, 21.
Ques. 9. 1 Peter 2:9, 10; Titus 2:14.
Ques. 10. Rev. 7:4, 9, 10.
Ques. 11. Rev. 21:3 ; 22:3, 4.
Ques. 12. Ezek. 33:11; 2 Peter 3:9.
Ques. 13. Ps. 100:3 ; 79:13; 95:7.
Ques. 14. Isa. 60:21; Gal. 3:29 ; Rev. 21:7.
f
471
ALGERIA
BIBLE LANDS IN MODERN TIMES
CASPIAN
SEA
GREECE
IRAN ADVENTIST
-
ACADEMY
MEDITERRANEAN SEA
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
U. A. R.
EGYPT
Of
MUSCAT
4..„ _
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- "4
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0MA
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i --.
POFULATION OlUICIIIS MIK 5.
1
v
CYPRUS SECTION
589930
1
24
9 I
..--
i ADEN
EGYPT SECTION
27,963.203
13
947
1.202!
I
.'
YEMEN, ' PROTECTORATE
IRAN SECTION
22,182,000
7
295
261
J
....v...
C,
x%
IRAQ SECTION
11,330.000
4
173
492
'
JORDAN SECTION
1,827800
3
142
316
LEBANON SECTION
1,759000
6
527
um
SUDAN
LIBYA STATION
1,559800
I
38
92
•
-,'
SUDAN STATION
12,650,000
-
3
5
SYRIA SECTION
4,972,316
4
176
213
ETHIOPIA
INDIAN OCEAN
TURKEY SECTION
29,418,080
1
a
PS
.
'4.
•
ADEN
1,303900
.- — 8..9
YEMEN
5900900
7
‘'
W. SAUDI ARABIA
32939
-
00
—
DIVISION TOTALS
123,540516
40
4,
00
4
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9••
•••
•
•°....---"'
-
-
-/-
411.0.•
ARABIA
TURKEY